Concern Over Deteriorating Cat Bite Infection Despite Antibiotic Treatment
Recently, I suffered an injury from a cat bite, despite the animal being up-to-date on vaccinations and not being allowed outdoors. The bite led to an infection that escalated rapidly. To address this, I was prescribed Augmentin to be taken twice daily over a span of ten days. However, after a week on this antibiotic, I’m dismayed to notice that the infection seems to be worsening rather than improving. Each day, I have been diligently cleansing the wound with soap and water before applying triple antibiotic ointment and securing it with a bandaid to prevent irritation from my clothing. Unfortunately, the area around the bite is now marked by a very itchy, bright red ring, accompanied by what appears to be a hard swelling at the center, along with a concerning amount of pus. Upon changing the bandaid, I observe a peculiar discharge that is a yellow-green hue. Due to its location in the thigh and pelvic crease, I am hesitant to share any images of the affected area for privacy reasons. My urgent care physician advised that if symptoms persist beyond the antibiotic course, I should reach out to my primary care provider (PCP). I was also informed that significant improvement should be evident within 48 hours, yet that hasn’t been the case. Should I reach out to my PCP now about this problem, or can it wait until Thursday? I’m apprehensive about getting an appointment since I can’t afford another visit to urgent care. For context, I am a 23-year-old person assigned female at birth, weighing 120 pounds and standing 5’4" tall. My current medications include 10 mg of amlodipine, a combination birth control, Maxalt, magnesium glycinate once daily, and a probiotic twice a day. I have a diagnosis of an unspecified connective tissue disorder, POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), and experience mild episodes of SVT (Supraventricular Tachycardia). The cause of my hypertension is unknown, but it was once severe prior to medication. My kidney function has been ruled out and I have yearly consultations with a cardiologist, with plans to see a genetic specialist in cardiology soon. Apologies for the lengthy background; I’ve been on a long journey to understand my health issues for the past 16 years!
Answers (1)
9/2/2025, 1:10:56 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are experiencing significant concerns with your cat bite infection despite being on antibiotics. Given that the infection appears to be worsening and you are noticing increased redness, swelling, pus, and itchiness, it is crucial to take this situation seriously.
Main Points:
- Worsening Symptoms: Persistent or worsening symptoms after starting antibiotics could indicate that the infection is not responding to the treatment, or that there may be complications.
- Urgency of Follow-Up: It’s advisable to reach out to your primary care provider (PCP) as soon as possible.
Explanation:
Cat bites can sometimes lead to infections due to bacteria present in the cat's mouth. Symptoms like redness, swelling, and pus are indications that the infection may not be controlled by the antibiotics you are taking. Infections can escalate, especially if they spread beyond the immediate area or if other complications arise. It is understandable that financial concerns make you hesitant to seek care, but your health and safety should come first.
Next Steps:
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Contact Your PCP Immediately: Explain your worsening symptoms and express your concerns about the infection. Even if you have to wait until Thursday, making the call now can help you get guidance on how to proceed. They may prioritize your case or suggest alternatives that could mitigate costs.
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Continue Proper Wound Care: Keep cleaning the wound gently with soap and water. Avoid using ointments if you're seeing an increase in pus, as this could trap bacteria. Instead, keep the area covered with a clean bandage.
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Pay close attention to any new symptoms such as fever, increased pain, or spread of redness. These could indicate the need for urgent care.
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Prepare for Your Appointment: If you can get an appointment with your PCP, be ready to discuss all your symptoms, the timeline, and any other relevant medical history. Taking notes can help you articulate your concerns clearly.
Stay focused on addressing the infection promptly while continuing your other health management strategies. You’ve done a great job tracking your health so far, and this situation is just another step in your journey. Let me know if you have any further questions or need more specific advice!
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